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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Facades in a Sustainable Urban Housing Solution

Author:
Florian Mouafo Zambou
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Facades in a Sustainable Urban Housing Solution

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and concrete facades, this urban housing solution integrates modular units and communal gardens to enhance sustainable living while fostering community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved thermal performance.
03
Features modular unit designs that promote flexible living arrangements.
04
Includes integrated communal gardens to encourage social interaction.
05
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and views.
This architectural project provides an integrated approach to modern urban living, featuring a combination of residential units and multifunctional public spaces. The design prioritizes community engagement and connectivity, offering a comprehensive environment tailored to accommodate diverse lifestyles and enhance social interactions. By employing modular principles, the architecture presents flexible options for living arrangements, fostering a balance between private and community-focused areas.

Residential and Public Space Integration

The design encapsulates a harmonious blend of residential segments and public areas. The modular housing typology allows various apartment configurations to meet the needs of different demographics, from singles to families. Clusters of units facilitate interactions among residents while maintaining necessary privacy. The layout encourages active participation by integrating pathways that link communal spaces with individual residences. Additionally, the public spaces are strategically designed to host activities that inspire engagement, serving as venues for both leisure and organized events.

Materials and Sustainable Practices

The material selection plays a critical role in the project’s approach to sustainable architecture. Concrete serves as the primary structural element due to its durability and efficiency. Glass applications feature prominently, allowing for natural ventilation and daylight penetration, thus reducing energy consumption. Wood elements enhance the aesthetic quality, softening the overall presence and providing tactile contrasts against the robustness of concrete and glass. Green roofs contribute to environmental benefits, improving urban biodiversity and providing natural insulation for the housing units below.

Unique Modular Design Features

What sets this project apart is its innovative application of modular design principles. This flexibility allows for future adaptability in response to changing community needs and demographic trends. The design incorporates mixed-use elements within the public spaces, addressing various user requirements such as recreation, relaxation, and social gatherings without compromising accessibility. The circular and grid-like formations enhance circulation patterns while establishing a sense of place, distinguishing this project from typical urban developments.

Architectural Plans and Sections

For a more in-depth understanding of the architecture involved, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design strategies will illuminate how the layout promotes community engagement and sustainability. Each aspect of the project is carefully calibrated to ensure functionality and aesthetic coherence, presenting a model for future urban residential developments. To gain further insights into this project and its design, readers are encouraged to review the detailed architectural designs and ideas presented within the project’s comprehensive materials.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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